In an inspiring tale of perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit, Brett Smith, once an office worker who spent nights sleeping under his desk, has risen to become the driving force behind one of the largest custom rubber stamp providers in North America. With a thriving business valued at a staggering $10 million, Bretts success did not happen overnight.

Navigating the challenging path of entrepreneurship can be demanding for anyone, but for Brett, who identifies as LGBT, the journey presented an additional layer of obstacles. In a world that is gradually becoming more inclusive, it is disheartening to acknowledge that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity still exists. For Brett, being open about their identity meant braving a landscape that was not always accepting or understanding.

Starting a business requires building relationships, securing investments, and gaining the trust of clients and customers. However, Brett knew that his identity might be a factor that could potentially hinder these crucial aspects of entrepreneurial success.

“Coming out as LGBT and being open about my identity in the business world was both liberating and challenging,” Brett shares, their voice tinged with a mix of vulnerability and strength. “I knew that there might be individuals who would question my abilities or make assumptions based on stereotypes. It was an additional hurdle to overcome in an already competitive environment.”

Despite the fear of potential backlash, Bretts refusal to let his identity define or limit him, “only served to motivate me to prove the naysayers wrong and challenge any preconceived notions or biases that others might hold.”

“It was essential for me to be visible, not just for myself but for others who might be struggling to find their place in the business world,” Brett reflects with a sense of purpose. “I wanted to show that our diversity is our strength, and we can contribute immensely to the entrepreneurial landscape.”

Rewinding to just over a decade ago, Brett found himself trapped in the monotony of a nine-to-five office job, dreaming of a future where didn’t have to answer to anyone and be his own boss.

“The desk where I once slept became the launchpad for my dreams,” Brett explains. “I knew deep down that I wanted more out of life. I wanted to create something meaningful, something that would leave a lasting impact.”

The idea of working for someone else and being confined to the limitations of a regular job no longer satisfied him. He wanted to chart his own path and build something that would allow him to make his mark on the world.

“I realized that the only way I could truly fulfill my ambitions was by becoming an entrepreneur,”

“I wanted the freedom to make my own decisions, take risks, and build something of my own. It was daunting at first, but I knew deep down that it was the right choice.”

Brett started his entrepreneurial journey by devoting a few hours a day to his newfound passion. The small income he initially generated gradually transformed into a few hundred dollars a week, to a few thousand and eventually to hundreds of thousands a month.

“The feeling of seeing my hard work pay off was indescribable,” Brett reflects with a smile. “From working long nights on that desk to now overseeing a thriving business, it’s been an incredible journey. I am grateful for every challenge I faced along the way because they shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today.”

However success did not happen overnight. Over the course of two years when he originally launched, Pickledstamps was constantly being shut down by platforms such as Amazon and Etsy, citing ambiguous policy violations, and ultimately suspending Picklestamps operations, effectively severing the lifeline of the business that Brett had poured his heart and soul into building. Years of tireless work and the loyalty of his customers were suddenly cast into uncertainty.

“It was a devastating blow,” Brett confides, the echoes of frustration evident in his voice. “I had invested countless hours into building my brand and creating products that customers loved. To have it all halted in an instant was incredibly disheartening. The hardest part of the journey was not knowing whether I would be able to bring my stores back and to know that giants such as Amazon can so easily suspend accounts for no reason definitely still keeps me awake at night.”

Despite the challenges faced, Picklestamps has become hugely popular on social media platforms like TikTok, captivating the imagination of countless booktockers and book lovers, and in it’s course attracting a legion of new customers.

“Seeing people create incredible art with my stamps and sharing their experiences online reaffirmed my passion and reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.”

Fast forward to 2023, Brett now stands at the helm of an empire that turns in $10 million dollars in sales per year and he shows no signs of stopping.

“It certainly wasn’t easy. A lot of people assume that you can be successful overnight, but I had to really put my life on pause for two years to really get it off the ground.”

Pickledstamps has now overtaken more established players in the United States as the go-to destination for rubber stamps from small businesses, educational institutions, to government agencies. The company’s products have also caught the attention of famous celebrities and influential Hollywood TV series.

“I just couldn’t believe in my wildest dreams that my products would be on popular TV shows and on channels such as the TodayShow”.

As Pickledstamps continues to reach new heights, his sights are now set on expanding his operations across different states within North America.

“The biggest challenges we face year in, year out is that we’re constantly overwhelmed by the sheer volume of orders we get, especially during certain periods throughout the year. So we’ve kicked the ball down the hill with setting up warehouses so that our customers are able to receive their products in a timely manner and shorten the delivery lead times.” Brett explains.

Brett’s endeavors also extend to coaching and training others to pursue entrepreneurship.

Brett added that if you are working a 9-5, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, but if you want freedom then start your own business.

As Brett looks towards the future, he asserts: “If you have a passion burning within you, don’t let it fade away. Embrace it, pursue it relentlessly, and watch as it transforms your life. The only person who can limit your success is yourself. Dream big and never stop believing in your potential.”